The Art of Succession

Barrett Young | GWCPA
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Stepping into the role of business owner is one of the most challenging endeavors you'll undertake. Buying that business from someone you already know amplifies the risk of mistakes. On The Art of Succession Podcast, you'll hear from entrepreneurs who've successfully transitioned from employee to owner by acquiring businesses from parents, former bosses, or co-founders. Together, we'll explore how they navigated the complex blend of emotions and strategic decisions required to honor the past while forging a new and vibrant future. Your host, Barrett Young, a fellow traveler in the succession story of a 75+ year CPA firm himself, invites his guests to reflect on the mindset shifts, challenges, and triumphs that have empowered them to build on their established foundations. Whether you're just starting out or already envisioning your own succession plan, you will find insights and actionable advice to guide your journey.

  1. How New Leaders Can Inherit a Business Without Losing Trust or Breaking Culture with Keegan Evans

    FEB 17

    How New Leaders Can Inherit a Business Without Losing Trust or Breaking Culture with Keegan Evans

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp ------------------------------------------------ Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Keegan Evans, CEO, Executive Coach, & AI Consultant at Euda, & Limited Partner at Beyond Earth Ventures, about his path from helicopter pilot to tech leader and executive coach. Keegan shares how his military background shaped his leadership style and prepared him to navigate complex business roles. He reflects on lessons from aviation, product management, and culture change at companies like TiVo and Intuit. Now, through Euda, he helps teams adopt AI with a human-centered approach that supports growth, clarity, and long-term success. Keegan shares his journey from flying combat missions in the Marine Corps to leading teams in tech and starting his own company. He talks about learning leadership under pressure and how those lessons carried into product roles at TiVo and Intuit. Keegan explains why culture is key in any business and how clear decision-making builds strong teams. He discusses his work helping companies adopt AI in a way that supports people, not replaces them. His story shows the value of listening, learning fast, and leading with purpose through change. Key Takeaways: Keegan’s path from Marine Corps pilot to tech leader and business coach.How military service shaped his approach to leadership and problem-solving.Lessons from working at TiVo and Intuit on product, culture, and innovation.Why did he start Euda to guide companies through AI adoption with the intention?How he helps teams use AI to improve work without losing human value.Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Leadership is about influence, not just authority." - Keegan Evans"AI is the copilot, not your autopilot." - Keegan Evans"Our job is to provide clarity where we cannot provide certainty." - Keegan EvansJoin Keegan Evans as he shares lessons from combat aviation, tech leadership, and executive coaching. Hear how military values shaped his thinking, why culture matters in business, and how to adopt AI without losing the human touch. Learn how Keegan now helps leaders build stronger teams and adapt to change with clarity and purpose. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[02:12] - Introducing Keegan Evans[03:40] - Veteran strengths in leadership[06:04] - Keegan's career journey[11:25] - Military leadership myths debunked[14:49] - Leadership mistakes & call sign story[19:23] - How to enter an existing culture[24:19] - Listening vs. decisive action[28:25] - Building a trusted leadership team[31:10] - Mission focus in civilian work[34:23] - Embracing small failures[38:30] - Communicating with clarity[42:05] - Asking questions confidently[46:42] - AI adoption framework[51:08] - Practical AI use cases[54:49] - AI & human thriving[57:12] - Lightning round begins[01:00:55] - Where to find Keegan FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keeganevans/ Company LinkedIn (Euda): https://www.linkedin.com/company/euda-io/ Company LinkedIn (Beyond Earth Ventures): https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyondearthventures/ Company Website (Euda): https://www.euda.io/ Company Website (Beyond Earth Venture): https://beyondearth.vc/FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1h 2m
  2. A Young CEO Lost His Family Business to Rebuild Purpose and Legacy in Succession with James Kell

    FEB 3

    A Young CEO Lost His Family Business to Rebuild Purpose and Legacy in Succession with James Kell

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/ownership-mindset-scoreapp  ------------------------------------------------ Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with James Kell, Co-Founder of scratchie.com and Founder of Sailing Virgins, about his journey from taking over his family’s struggling construction business at age 28 to founding two successful ventures. James shares how his family's legacy in construction shaped his early career and the challenges he faced in turning the business around. He explains the key lessons in leadership, business recovery, and personal growth, and why he later launched scratchie.com to help companies improve workplace culture through innovative recognition tools. James shares his journey from taking over a family business to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He talks about stepping in at age 28 to manage a struggling construction company and learning leadership by necessity. James explains how his hands-on experience shaped his approach to business and leadership, and why he later founded scratchie.com to help companies improve workplace culture. He discusses the lessons learned from managing a family business and why he’s passionate about supporting other entrepreneurs in building thriving businesses. James's story highlights the value of resilience, leadership, and creating businesses that make a positive impact. Key Takeaways: James' journey from taking over his family’s construction business at age 28 to becoming an entrepreneur.How he learned leadership and business recovery while managing a struggling company.The importance of hands-on experience and the lessons he learned along the way.What led him to start scratchie.com to help companies improve workplace culture?How James helps businesses create stronger teams and foster positive work environments. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "I was trying to figure out what the problem was and how to fix it." - James Kell"Leadership is about making decisions and then moving forward." - James Kell"If you're not passionate about what you're doing, it will be hard to make it work." - James Kell Join James Kell as he shares lessons from taking over a struggling family business and founding successful ventures. Hear how he turned around a company, built strong leadership, and founded scratchy.com to help businesses improve culture and grow. Episode Highlights[00:00:00] - Tease[00:01:26] - Intro to Guest James Kell[00:03:14] - Family business history & crisis[00:05:06] - Taking over at 28[00:06:44] - Accepting responsibility[00:10:34] - Warranty & defect challenges[00:12:26] - Father-son leadership dynamic[00:19:28] - Financial lessons & mistakes[00:22:32] - Mental health & lack of passion as CEO[00:25:02] - Attempts to sell the company & move on[00:27:49] - Business collapse & reset[00:30:25] - Starting Sailing Virgins[00:33:25] - Creating Scratchy[00:36:37] - How scratchie.com Works[00:41:01] - Mental Health in Construction[00:44:32] - Impact of Recognition[00:47:21] - Lessons Learned[00:51:10] - Advice for Family Businesses[00:52:31] - Lightning Round[00:57:49] - US Launch Plans[01:00:29] - How to Connect FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameskell/ Company LinkedIn (scratchie.com): https://www.linkedin.com/company/scratchie-app/ Company LinkedIn (Sailing Virgins): https://www.linkedin.com/company/sailing-virgins/ Company Website (scratchie.com): https://scratchie.com/ Email: james@scratchie.com  FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com  FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1 hr
  3. How Young Entrepreneurs Take Over Businesses and Succeed in Succession Planning with Colin Sanburg

    JAN 20

    How Young Entrepreneurs Take Over Businesses and Succeed in Succession Planning with Colin Sanburg

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp ------------------------------------------------ Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Colin Sanburg, Founder and CEO of FinElevate and Managing Partner at Abacus Unlimited, about his journey from buying his first business at age 22 to building a portfolio of companies. Colin shares how a turning point early in life sparked his drive toward entrepreneurship and how stepping into a struggling family business led to years of hands-on learning. He explains the lessons he gained in leadership, financial strategy, and business turnaround, and why he later founded FinElevate to help other entrepreneurs build better businesses and gain more freedom. Colin shares his journey from working in a family business to becoming a business owner and financial leader. He talks about stepping into a struggling company at age 22 and learning the financial side by necessity. Colin explains how mentorship and mastermind groups helped shape his leadership style and business growth. He discusses the difference between buying and starting companies, and why he chose to launch FinElevate to support other entrepreneurs. Colin’s experience shows the importance of an ownership mindset, financial clarity, and building businesses with intention and integrity. Key Takeaways: Colin’s journey from stepping into a family business at age 22 to becoming a business owner.How he turned around a struggling company by learning finance on the job.Mentorship and mastermind groups played a key role in his growth.What led him to start FinElevate and support other entrepreneurs?How he helps business owners build stronger companies and gain more freedom. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "I showed up. I owned that business. That was my mentality." - Colin Sanburg"There is no such thing in this world as a passive business." - Colin Sanburg"You have to go out in the world and understand it for all its complexity so that you can come home and simplify it." - Colin Sanburg Join Colin Sanburg as he shares lessons from buying, building, and selling businesses. Hear how he turned around a struggling company, the value of financial clarity, and why mastermind groups shaped his path. Learn how Colin now helps other business owners grow with purpose and create more freedom in their lives. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[02:09] - Introducing Part 2 with Colin Sanburg[05:38] - Free advice to paid service shift[07:06] - Defining fractional CFO vs. bookkeeper/CPA[10:54] - Starting vs. buying a business[15:55] - Why sell a business?[17:26] - The myth of passive business income[23:40] - Lightning round (quick-fire questions)[30:57] - Future plans & human-focused tech[34:32] - Launching during COVID[37:56] - What a fractional CFO does[39:48] - Starting vs. buying a business[44:49] - The myth of passive income[49:34] - Selling the business to the internal team[52:51] - Lightning round begins[57:40] - Wanted legacy: integrity[59:54] - Future plans for FinElevate FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinsanburg/ Company LinkedIn (FinElevate): https://www.linkedin.com/company/finelevate/ Company LinkedIn (Abacus Unlimited): https://www.linkedin.com/company/abacus-unlimited/  FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com  FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1h 2m
  4. The Succession Strategies for Founders to Scale Businesses and Let Go of Control with Doug Thorpe

    JAN 6

    The Succession Strategies for Founders to Scale Businesses and Let Go of Control with Doug Thorpe

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp ------------------------------------------------Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Doug Thorpe, President & CEO of HeadwayExec, LLC, about his journey from corporate banking to consulting and coaching. Doug shares how his experiences in the banking world led him to focus on leadership development and succession planning for small businesses. He discusses the importance of business owners evolving through key growth phases and the challenges they face in scaling up. Doug also highlights the significance of empowering leadership teams and preparing businesses for successful exits. Doug shares his journey from corporate banking to entrepreneurship and coaching. He talks about the challenges he faced in scaling businesses and the lessons he learned in leadership development and succession planning. Doug explains how business owners often struggle with transitioning through key growth stages and the importance of letting go of control to scale effectively. He discusses how empowering leadership teams and preparing businesses for successful exits can lead to long-term success. Doug’s experience highlights the value of thoughtful planning and adaptation in business growth. Key Takeaways: Doug’s path from corporate banking to coaching and entrepreneurship.How he learned to navigate business growth stages and the challenges of scaling.Why letting go of control is crucial for business owners to scale effectively.What Doug’s approach to leadership development and succession planning looks like.How he helps business owners prepare for successful exits and future growth.Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Cash is king, and you never have enough cash." - Doug Thorpe"What got you here won’t get you there." - Doug Thorpe"Exponential growth requires letting go of control." - Doug ThorpeJoin Doug Thorpe as he shares valuable insights on navigating business growth, scaling successfully, and the importance of leadership development. Learn how business owners can prepare for a smooth transition and exit while empowering their teams for long-term success. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[01:48] - Introducing guest Doug Thorpe[02:49] - Stages of business growth: startup to enterprise[07:11] - Doug's journey from banking to entrepreneurship[08:52] - Mother's influence and shift to consulting[11:46] - Coaching vs. consulting and virtual transition[15:04] - Evolution of business coaching demand[18:31] - Cash flow lessons and entrepreneurial mindset[23:25] - 2008 crash and shutting down the business[28:21] - Identity loss and career transition coaching[33:31] - Moving into leadership coaching[35:38] - Succession planning for business owners[37:08] - Leadership delegation challenges[41:08] - Engaging employees in succession talks[44:40] - ETA buyer alignment & investment thesis[50:47] - Personality fit in business acquisition[51:42] - Doug’s own succession plan[53:43] - Lightning round: quickfire questions FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougthorpe/ Website: https://dougthorpe.com/ Podcasts: https://podcasts.dougthorpe.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/dougthorpe_com Facebook: https://facebook.com/headwayexec Instagram: https://instagram.com/dougthorpe_com YELP: https://www.yelp.com/biz/headwayexec-houston-4 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dougthorpe Buy a Business: https://headwayexec.com  FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1 hr
  5. The Shift from Hourly to Subscription to Build the Value and Modernize a CPA Firm

    12/16/2025

    The Shift from Hourly to Subscription to Build the Value and Modernize a CPA Firm

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!) 👉 https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp —-------------------------------Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------ Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, a Tax and Marketing Partner at GWCPA, takes you through the firm’s ongoing succession journey. In this episode, Barrett reflects on key updates at GWCPA, including the growth of the team, the implementation of EOS, and the shift to subscription-based pricing. He shares insights on AI adoption, the firm's strategic plans, and how they are preparing for the future of tax preparation and business transition. Barrett isn’t just leading the firm; he’s committed to building a future where the next generation can thrive. His journey in public accounting has shaped his approach at GWCPA. By embracing new systems like EOS and focusing on innovation, he demonstrates how thoughtful planning and a forward-thinking mindset can create lasting value for both the firm’s team and clients. Barrett has spent years leading GWCPA with a focus on future growth and succession. By embracing tools like EOS and AI, he uses his experience to guide the firm through key transitions. His approach blends practical lessons on leadership, planning, and innovation, helping teams prepare for the future and build lasting success. Key Takeaways:- Barrett’s approach to building a future-ready firm. - How EOS and AI support growth and clarity.- The shift to subscription pricing and proactive planning.- Why simplifying processes is essential for success.- How Barrett’s leadership prepares the team for lasting impact. Additional Insights:- How EOS helps guide the firm’s long-term vision.- The impact of AI on improving efficiency and service.- Why shifting to subscription pricing supports growth.- How simplifying processes builds clarity for staff and clients.- The role of leadership in preparing for future success. Here are a few quotes from the episode:“We are building a firm that can grow beyond tax returns.” - Barrett Young“AI is not the future, it’s here now, and we need to be ready.” - Barrett Young“Clarity, innovation, and purpose are the foundation of our success.” - Barrett Young Join Barrett Young as he discusses how EOS, AI, and strategic planning are shaping the future of GWCPA. Learn how focusing on innovation, simplified processes, and strong leadership is helping the firm grow and succeed in the years ahead. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[01:46] - Season 3 Recap & Podcast Growth[03:00] - YouTube Growth & Season 3 Guest Highlights[07:34] - Key Mindset & Legacy Conversations[09:44] - Season 4 Preview: Booked Through June[11:26] - EOS Progress & Upcoming Strategic Retreat[13:39] - Tax Season 2026: Staffing & Capacity Plan[15:37] - Barrett Earns CEPA Certification[18:21] - Applying "Protect Phase" to Client Work[22:07] - Mission: Simplify for the Next Owner[28:00] - Inspired by Ron Baker & Membership Economy[30:31] - Vision: Proactive Advice, Smaller Client Base[34:30] - 2 Years of AI: Lessons & Urgency[38:25] - AI's Future & The Cloud Comparison[45:16] - Incremental Growth: The 20-Season Mindset[50:39] - YouTube Pivot: Employee-to-Owner Focus FOLLOW THE HOST:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com  FOLLOW THE PODCAST:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/  Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    55 min
  6. The Bootstrapped Growth for Podcasters to Succeed with Acquisitions and Systems with Alex Sanfilippo

    12/02/2025

    The Bootstrapped Growth for Podcasters to Succeed with Acquisitions and Systems with Alex Sanfilippo

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/ownership-mindset-scoreapp  ------------------------------------------------ Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------ Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Alex Sanfilippo, Podcaster & Founder at PodMatch, a podcast guest matching platform that has helped thousands of podcasters connect with their ideal guests. Alex shares his journey from working in aerospace to building PodMatch from the ground up. He talks about the lessons learned from pivoting from a corporate career to full-time entrepreneurship, including his approach to scaling a business, making strategic acquisitions, and maintaining a people-first mentality. In this episode, Alex discusses the challenges of creating PodMatch, his approach to handling business growth, and how strategic decisions like acquiring competitors have allowed him to solidify credibility and expand his brand. They also explore the power of podcasting as a tool to build trust, authority, and lasting connections with audiences. Key Takeaways: Alex bootstrapped PodMatch to solve his personal pain point of finding the right podcast guests.He transitioned from aerospace corporate leadership to full-time entrepreneurship.Acquiring competitors helped establish trust and credibility in the podcasting space.He prioritizes user benefit over revenue, which has been crucial to his business’s success.Podcasting is a powerful tool for building trust, connection, and clarity in today’s digital world.Here are a few quotes from the episode: “You don’t need to know everything, just be willing to learn.” – Alex Sanfilippo“Turnaround isn’t about saving the day; it’s about moving forward.” – Alex Sanfilippo“Real change starts when you focus on people, not just profits.” – Alex SanfilippoJoin Alex Sanfilippo as he shares how his journey of overcoming failure and prioritizing people helped him grow PodMatch into a trusted platform, and how others can apply these principles to grow their own businesses with purpose and clarity. Want to connect with the perfect podcast guests? Check out PodMatch's free resourcesand get started today! 👉 https://podmatch.com/free Episode Highlights[00:00:00] - Teaser[00:02:19] - Alex's mission: demystifying entrepreneurship[00:04:54] - Alex's early entrepreneurial journey and corporate career[00:10:00] - The corporate turning point: Why Alex left his C-suite job[00:13:45] - Using a podcast to find his path, leading to PodMatch[00:16:00] - Identifying the universal pain point for podcasters[00:18:30] - The "dating app" inspiration for PodMatch[00:23:15] - How the PodMatch algorithm creates quality connections[00:26:35] - The first strategic acquisition and its strategic value[00:30:02] - Evaluating opportunities and the importance of saying "no"[00:33:42] - Acquiring "Podcasting Made Simple" to build community[00:38:13] - The lesson of consolidating brands for clarity[00:41:20] - The power and future of podcasting as a medium[00:44:50] - Why every business should consider podcasting[00:50:15] - The role of video in modern podcasting[00:53:40] - AI's role: A tool for enhancement, not replacement[00:58:20] - Core philosophy: Serving a specific "why"[00:59:35] - Lightning Round[01:03:18] - How to connect with Alex and get his free resource FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn (Personal Profile): https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsanfilippo/PodMatch (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/podmatch/PodMatch (Website): https://www.podmatch.com/member/alexFOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1h 4m
  7. The Bold Succession Plan That Let Me Own and Transform a Financial Business with Joseph Curry

    11/18/2025

    The Bold Succession Plan That Let Me Own and Transform a Financial Business with Joseph Curry

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉 https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp ------------------------------------------------Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Joseph Curry, Founder of Retirement Planning Simplified and a CFP/CEPA specializing in small business succession and retirement. Joseph shares his journey from joining his father’s advisory firm to buying and transforming another advisor’s practice. He talks about shifting to evidence-based investing, narrowing his client focus, and building systems that allow him to serve fewer clients with more depth. He also discusses how exit planning helps business owners shape a future they can enjoy. Joseph shares his experience of buying and reshaping a financial advisory firm. They explore Joseph’s path from working in his father’s practice to building a client-focused, planning-first business. He explains how he shifted away from transactional services, adopted evidence-based investing, and used education to better serve clients. Joseph also talks about managing team changes, setting up clear systems, and helping business owners prepare for retirement and exit. His thoughtful, steady approach shows how clear planning leads to real progress. Key Takeaways: Joseph’s journey from joining his father’s firm to buying his own practice.How he shifted from selling products to giving full financial advice.Why is client education at the center of his business?What worked and what was hard during a real succession plan.How does he help business owners plan exits they feel good about?Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Markets work. Let them work for you.” - Joseph Curry“Not every client is the right fit.” - Joseph Curry“Exit planning is about options.” - Joseph CurryJoin Joseph Curry as he shares real-life lessons on buying a firm, building trust with clients, and turning a practice into a planning-first business that helps owners retire with confidence and clarity. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[02:03] - Intro to the show and guest Joseph Curry[03:22] - How Joseph found his start in financial planning[06:44] - Talking with his dad about leaving the family firm[08:50] - Bringing clients and shifting investment approach[11:05] - What evidence-based investing really means[14:16] - Structuring the deal and joining as a successor[19:02] - Navigating client reactions and building education systems[23:09] - Letting go of clients and aligning on vision[28:23] - Selling non-core services and refining the business model[31:51] - Covid Shift, Remote Growth, and Launching Client Education[33:53] - Balancing Remote Work, Office Life, and Team Changes[37:04] - Transitioning Client Trust and Leading With Support[09:02] - Leading Marketing With Education and Core Values[41:52] - Time Blocking to Balance Clients, Planning, and Marketing[46:30] - Team Roles, Admin Tasks, and Running on EOS[48:28] - Why Two Podcasts: Retirement and Exit Planning[51:20] - Why Most Businesses Fail at Exit and What Owners Miss[54:40] - Redefining Exit Planning and the Start of the Lightning Round[59:29] - From Transactional Sales to Advice-Centered Planning[01:04:18] - Final Thoughts, Contact Info, and Episode Wrap-Up FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn (Personal Profile): https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe/ Retirement Planning Simplified (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/retirement-planning-simplified/ Retirement Planning Simplified (Website): https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/  Retirement Planning Simplified (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOnQcuvhpGpJpLjt3w2H6MA  FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

    1h 5m
  8. How Operators Rescue Failing Businesses and Rebuild Culture That Drives Profit with Ori Elraviv

    11/04/2025

    How Operators Rescue Failing Businesses and Rebuild Culture That Drives Profit with Ori Elraviv

    The 30-Question Ownership Readiness Diagnostic. Identify your gaps in finance, leadership, and revenue creation before you take the leap. Get your score, get your plan. (It’s FREE!)👉https://bit.ly/owner-shipmindset-scoreapp  ------------------------------------------------Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession ------------------------------------------------Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young talks with Ori Elraviv, COO at MediaFeed and a turnaround expert for small and mid-size companies. Ori shares his journey of leading businesses through change, starting with mobile gaming in China and later running major digital brands like Ebaum’s World and Cheezburger. He talks about learning through failure, leading with calm and clarity, and helping others grow by fixing what’s stuck and building what works. In this episode, Ori Elraviv joins Barrett Young to discuss how to turn around struggling businesses. They dive into Ori’s approach of stepping into underperforming companies, building trust with teams, and making meaningful, lasting changes. Ori talks about the importance of clear business strategies, shifting models, and focusing on people to achieve growth. His calm, practical leadership style shows how businesses can make progress by understanding what’s working, fixing what’s not, and leading with purpose. Key Takeaways: Ori’s path from mobile games in China to running Ebaum’s World.How he turned a failing business in Serbia into a success.Why people, not just profits, are key to change.Lessons on leading with calm, even in chaos.How finding the right team and clear focus drives real growth.Here are a few quotes from the episode: “You don’t need to know everything - just be willing to learn.” - Ori Elraviv“Turnaround isn’t about saving the day; it’s about moving forward.” - Ori Elraviv“Real change starts when you focus on people, not just profits.” - Ori ElravivJoin Ori Elraviv as he shares real stories, smart lessons, and people-first strategies that help business owners solve problems, grow with purpose, and lead with calm, clear focus in fast-changing times. Episode Highlights[00:00] - Teaser[01:49] - Intro to the podcast and guest Ori Elraviv[02:28] - Why Ori thrives in fixing existing businesses[04:39] - From China to CEO: Ori’s early journey[07:30] - First turnaround and Literally Media beginnings[10:46] - Fixing Serbia: New model, tough calls[15:54] - Building teams and shared energy[18:25] - Acting fast on misfit leadership[21:44] - Gaining trust after a rocky acquisition[24:43] - Leading Cheezburger through culture shifts[26:47] - Scaling media brands with profit focus[31:16] - How to Get Up to Speed in a New Executive Role[34:40] - Diagnosing What’s Broken vs. What’s Cultural[37:42] - Navigating Subjectivity in Evaluating Quality[40:51] - Innovation in Comfortable or Stagnant Companies[43:55] - Why Innovation Requires a Different Type of Person[45:22] - Transitioning from Corporate CEO to Independent Advisor[49:03] - Coaching Founders Without Undermining Them[52:54] - The Power of Outside Perspective in Business Turnaround[54:56] - Lightning Round: Personal Insights FOLLOW THE GUEST: LinkedIn (Personal Profile): https://www.linkedin.com/in/orielraviv/ MediaFeed (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/mediafeed-llc/ MediaFeed (Website): https://www.mediafeed.us/ FOLLOW THE HOST: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/ Email: bey@gwcpas.com FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gwcpas Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast

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About

Stepping into the role of business owner is one of the most challenging endeavors you'll undertake. Buying that business from someone you already know amplifies the risk of mistakes. On The Art of Succession Podcast, you'll hear from entrepreneurs who've successfully transitioned from employee to owner by acquiring businesses from parents, former bosses, or co-founders. Together, we'll explore how they navigated the complex blend of emotions and strategic decisions required to honor the past while forging a new and vibrant future. Your host, Barrett Young, a fellow traveler in the succession story of a 75+ year CPA firm himself, invites his guests to reflect on the mindset shifts, challenges, and triumphs that have empowered them to build on their established foundations. Whether you're just starting out or already envisioning your own succession plan, you will find insights and actionable advice to guide your journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Barrett Young | GWCPA
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 GW CPA LLP
  • Show Website
    The Art of Succession